For Balinese, security is a vital aspect of life especially the security of religious ceremony, to ensure the security of their religious ceremony, a traditional security force called pecalang. The word “pecalang” is derived from the word “celang” that means “vigilant”. They are easily recognized by their cloths, their trademark uniform is, black and white checkered waistcloths, carrying keris daggers with black or checkered headdress.

Every village in Bali has its own pecalang, and the action of this traditional security force is controlled by the village regulation (awig-awig). This rapid spread of pecalang is greatly influenced by a law passed by the regional government of Bali in 2002 that formally legitimized the pecalang. The law stated that the safety and order in the area of the desa pakraman (village) is carried out by pecalang. Pecalang carries out duties of safeguarding the area of the desa pakraman relating or based on adapt (traditional law) and religion, and Pecalang are selected and relieved of their duties by the desa pakraman (village) based upon a village forum.

Their main duty in ensuring the security of a religious ceremony are vary such as controlling the traffic at ceremonies, guarding the cockfighting held as part of ceremonies, guarding the ogoh-ogoh parade on the pangrupukan day (a day before Nyepi, Balinese New Year) and ensuring the silence on the day of Nyepi by patrolling the streets to make sure that everyone, Hindu or not, keeps their lights turned off and does not venture out into the streets.

With the passing of time, the duty of pecalang is increased day by day. The new duties assign to pecalang nowadays are conducting identity card inspection, guarding an event such as conference, musical performance, opening of a new establishment, etc. In tourism area such as Kuta and Legian they may also provide ‘protection’ for bar and nightclub owners for monetary subsidies. In Nusa Dua, pecalang receive financing from hotels in exchange for similar protection.

These new duties will obscure the position of pecalang as a guardian of Balinese ceremony, culture and identity. The pecalang are created by the village based on traditional customary law for the benefit of the whole village community. They should work solely for the benefit of society and community in socio-religious event not for benefit of other institutions in exchange for financial gain.

Gelgel king, Dalem Ketut Ngulesir I Gelgel King Center in Bali after the government moved from the palace Samprangan concentrated in Gelgel. Palace is the name given Sueca Pura. Afapun as king in peretama Palace Sueca Pura amasih is a successor of the dynasty of hereditary Kepakisan of Majapahit. He is aI Dewa Ktut Dalem, which was then titled Ktut Ngulesir, because it is considered as Dynasty Kepakisan, the king is also titled Ktut Dalem Kresna Kepakisan who ruled for about 20 years (1380 - 1400) According to traditional sources, the king is known as a very handsome king, known as a government special (cawiri) a birthmark on the right thigh. This is also seen as symbols of his prowess in leading the people. Evidence or monument of King Dalem Ktut Ngulesir as king in Gelgel I found very difficult. Mentioned by both the chronicle and other sources.

Dalem Watu Enggong King Gelgel II, After Ktut Dalem Ngulesir meinggal, the government Gelgel replaced by his eldest son the title Dalem Watu Enggong or often called Dalem Waturenggong. Dalem Waturenggong government is the peak time greatness or packaging the Kingdom of Bali. Because in the era Waturenggong Dalem, Bali is the kingdom extended to the Sasak (chili), Sumbawa, and Blambangan Puger. Dalem Waturenggong is the king of the patriarch by the king of Pasuruan and King Dalem Mataram.Pemerintah Waturenggong the XVI century (around 1550 M) is the beginning of the offshore bond and the influence of the Majapahit kingdom fall over Bali by Majapahit kingdom work Islam.Pada Dalem Waturenggong this period, disputes have occurred between the kingdom Gelgel Blambangan Dalem occupied by the Savior that is triggered because of the rejection of the application of Waturenggong Dalem Ni Gusti Ayu Dalem Bas Putrid Savior. Hostilities occur, bali paramilitary unit led by Patih hose successfully kill the king Dalem Blambangan Savior. About the certainty of years of government and the remainder in Waturenggong king Dalem Klungkung Gelgel and very hard to find the source of the chronicle some new script (which still must be tested for their accuracy, collection AA Made Regeg Puri Anyar Klungkung, meyebutkan governmental Dalem Waturenggong called the number in years 1400 to 1500. While the script written by I Dewa Gde Catra, Sidemen - Karangasem the years 1460 -1552 M). Indeed, the second source is not much different, but still need to be inspected guilty.

Gelgel Dalem Bekung King III, Raden Pangharsa Dalem, which was then titled Bekung is the oldest son of Dalem Waturenggong that eventually became the king Gelgel to 3, because he is still very young, the government daily Gelgel represented in the fifth to the uncle Gedong Atha, I Dewa Nusa, I Dewa Pangedangan, I Dewa Anggungan, and I Dewa Bangli.Masa Government Dalem Bekung is the kingdom of darkness early Gelgel. Because the government is going too many problems and difficulties. Kingdoms Gelgel outside Bali that have been mastered Dalem Waturenggong items escape. Also occurred in the rebellion in the kingdom made by Gusti batan Orange call-up of I Dewa Anggungan that no other is their own uncle, rebellion Batan Jeruk nearly knock Gelgel, Arya Kubon before the body is still faithful to Dalem able to quell the rebellion Batan Jeruk.

Dalem Segening King Gelgel IV, After the rebellion mollification Batan Jeruk follow the occurrence of which is done by Krian Pande as retaliation over the failure of Batan Jeruk. Of the very day and can be quenched with Kareian killed Pande, because the situation began garbled, then the Council by the Kingdom of Gelgel was I Dewa Segening replaces brother as king Dalem Bekung. I Dewa Segening then titled Dalem Segening. With voluntary Dalem Bekung submit to the throne because the brother does not feel himself able to accept the mandate of ancestor. One of the most prominent change of government is the return Dalem Segening kingdoms Sasak (Lombok), which recognizes the authority of Sumbawa Gelgel. And one thing that is important Dalem Segening the tournament began to spread to almost all Dalem Bali. Itupun tournament title and has been divided-for start status as the most supreme knight Dalem, predewa noble, noble knight prangakan and prasanghyang .. Just as well as government Gelgel earlier, almost no residual that can be both a documentation and other objects by the editor as Gelgel proof of greatness.

Dalem Di Made Gelgel V King, After the government ended Segening Dalem, Gelgel be governed by the Dalem Di Made at the same time as the last king of the kingdom Gelgel. Time of peace that have been made by Dalem Segening can not be maintained by Dalem Di Made. This is because Dalem Di Made too excessive to give trust to pengabihnya I Gusti Agung Maruti. Council so that Council chose to leave the other castle. This is finally used by I Gusti Agung Maruti to overthrow the government Dalem Di Made. This business was successful, Dalem Di Made-son with her son to save himself Guliang village accompanied by about 300 people who are still faithful. Is the Dalem Di Made up a new palace. For almost 35 years experience kepakuman because Gelgel Dalem Di Made had to evacuate Guliang (Gianyar). While the Maruti Gelgel. This would make Bali in pieces some of which resulted in the kingdom, such as Den Bukit, Mengwi, Gianyar, Badung, Tabanan, and Bangli Payangan states themselves participate in this independent condition worsened with his death Dalem Di Made in Guliang palace. With his death Dalem Di Made, making the kingdom a temperamental Council to restore the kingdom to the dynasty Kepakisan. This three dipelopori by palace officials Panji Sakti, Ki Good Sidemen, and Jambe pile, they are finally a strategy that Maruti unuk attack power in Gelgel. Attack carried out from three directions simultaneously to create a Maruti followers and not able to maintain Gelgel. Maruti successfully fled to Jimbaran and choose to live in Alas Rangkan.

In Bali, becoming blacksmiths is not a matter of skill. Although you can learn how to make a steel implement, you cannot be called a blacksmith. The only way to become a blacksmiths is to be born in a Pande family.

The smiths in Bali are called, generally, pande, the most influential among them being blacksmiths: pande wesi, or pande besi. The historical importance of their craft, particularly in the shaping of the magically charged and (unfortunately) very practical kris daggers, gave this group of low caste artisans a status that seemed to fall outside the usual dictates of caste. The Pande is a small, but very tightly knit clan group in Bali. Although the Pande clan did not exist, even in the earliest days the pande has considerable political power, including the right to seat representatives on the governing bodies of the desa (village). To maintain their position of prestige, the smiths kept their techniques secret and saw it in that marriage would take place only within their own professional group. And today, this clan is still fiercely proud, the most conservative in its ranks refusing the religious authority of the Brahmana priest – some, claiming ancestry preceding Hinduism, even creating a sort of hybrid religion of their own.

The Pande clan inscribed its own history in a lontar, a formal religious document, called the Prasasti Sira Pande Empu. Many clan groups wrote lontars, during this time to codify, and amplify, their right to status greater than that of mere Sudra. These lontars, which are still read today, offers history that are vivid, exaggerated, and full of hubris. The Pande’s is no exception.

The Prasasti Sira Pande Empu outlines a mythology that seems to predate Hinduism. It describes that the creation of Brahma, but Brahma here appears less like that of Hindu triad, and more like the Vedic god of fire, Agni. Emphasizing fire, of course, make sense for the Pande, who have always considered fire as their special instrument, from which much of their power was derived. And yet the Pande adopted the color red, which is always associated with the Trimurti god of Brahma. The Pande temple at Pura Besakih is decorated red. Pande men often wear red articles of clothing, such as udeng (head band), and saput (waist cloth), when participating ceremonies.

In the lontar, Empu Pradah is proclaimed the first head of Pande clan. The document also includes a declaration of independence of sorts. It clearly states that the Brahmanas obtained their knowledge and power from the Pande, and establishes the Pande as older that the Brahmanas and of greater power and prestige. It also stipulates that Pandes are not permitted to obtain holy water from pedandas because, in affect, the Brahmana priests are the younger brother of the Pandes, and for that reason should be subservient to them. The lontar also includes various warnings to other caste-less people that they should not follow the teachings of Brahmanas and Ksatriyas, but rather emulate the Pandes.

Some of the Pande can follow the regular ritual of Balinese Hinduism as dictated in general Balinese scripture, obtaining their holy water from pedandas, praying at regular temples, and observing the routines that are followed by about everyone else in Bali. But the conservative Pande do not obtain the holy water from pedandas, maintaining that they are senior to the Brahmanas, not vice versa. Moreover, some of them a very pronounced anti pedanda bias. This has caused some problems. The most conservative Pande areas have their own temples and their own pemangkus – lay Pande priest – who officiate at special Pande ceremonies and who make their own holy water for use only by Pande people.

Penampahan Galungan, is a day before Galungan (a Christmas for Balinese). The word “Penampahan Galungan” derives from the word “tampah” which means “to slaughter” and “galungan” which means victory. So Penampahan Galungan is a day for Balinese to slay their Sad Ripu (six internal enemies, they are: kama (lust), loba (greed), krodha (anger), mada (drunkeness), moha (confusion) in order to achieve victory.

For six months Balinese engage with the battle of Dharma (Virtue) versus Adharma (Evil), and Penampahan Galungan is the last day of this great battle. On this day, Bhuta Amangkurat (King of negative force) comes to the world to temp Balinese. Amangkurat derives from the word “Mangku” which means “king”, “lord” or “master”. Bhuta Amangkurat temps human with the lust for power over others. If we were not in alert and weak, it would succeed in tempting us. On this day Bhuta Yadnya (offering for demon or other negative force) is held in Catuspata, (the houseyard), offering is distributed based on urip (special number for five direction, 4 for north, 5 for east, 7 for south, 9 for west and 8 for center) and direction, dedicated to Sang Tiga Bhuta Galungan (Three Evil force of Galungan which are Bhuta Galungan, Bhuta Dunggulan and Bhuta Amangkurat) in order to placate them so they will not disturb the human life.

But Penampahan Galungan is not just a day for ultimate struggle Dharma (Virtue) versus Adharma (Evil) but also a preparation day. On this day, Balinese are seen to be busily preparing offerings and cooking for the next day. While the women of the household have been busy for days before creating beautifully woven ‘banten‘ (offerings made from young coconut fronds), the men usually wake up well before dawn to join with their neighbours to slaughter a pig unlucky enough to be chosen to help celebrate this occasion. Then the finely diced pork is mashed to a pulp with a grinding stone, and moulded onto sate sticks that have been already prepared by whittling small sticks of bamboo. Chickens may also be chosen from the collection of free-range chickens that roam around the house compound.

Delicate combinations of various vegetables, herbs and spices are also prepared by the men to make up a selection of ‘lawar‘ dishes. While much of this cooking is for use in the offerings to be made at the family temple, by mid-morning, once all the cooking is done, it is time for the first of a series of satisfying feasts from what has been prepared. While the women continue to be kept busy with the preparations of the many offerings to be made at the family temple on the day of Galungan, the men also have another job to do this day, once the cooking is finished. A “penjor” the tall-artistically-decorated-bamboo-poles has to be made and stuck at every house-entrance adorn the along sides of the roads symbolizing prosperity.With all those activities Penampahan Galungan will be a very busy day for Balinese. But there will always a joy in Penampahan Galungan because on the next day, (Galungan the day of victory) will be a great blessing and festivity for all Balinese.

Riding on the rims of volcanoes. Off-road adventures. Quaint villages filled with local culture. Some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. This trip has it all and should not be missed.

Starting from the beach resort of Sanur we will explore the famous Batur Crater and swim in the Toyah Bungkah Hot Springs. We will also visit the island's two highest volcanoes and various canyons.Along the way, you will be able to take in breath-taking coastal views from the rim of craters and cycle around the ruins of a water palace and some of the most important temples on the island.

Towards the end of our tour we will spend some days cycling the central volcanoes on small trails through forests, coconut groves and the rice paddy fields that Bali is famous for.

During what can only be described as an epic trip, you can also unwind and catch your breath by taking advantage of rafting, snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities.

TRIP PROFILEThis trip is recommended for riders with some off-road experience, but you don’t have to be an expert to enjoy it. The only real requirement is a sense of adventure!Although this tour only covers around 240 kilometers in 6 full and 2 half cycling days, it can still be quite challenging. Because flat land in Bail is almost non-existent, the experience is made up entirely of off-road excursions on a series of challenging surfaces including forest trails, red mud hard-pack, volcanic sand, lava cobbles, gravel and broken tarmac roads. There are sections of single-track in every ride, but no long rocky or rooty sections or big drops. As far as gradients are concerned, all the trails except one have an overall down-hill element to them (in other words they finish at a lower altitude than the start). A few steep ascents and descents are also part of the program, but these are normally short and sharp.

Accommodation is varied and includes charming cottages and comfortable hotels.

Tanjung Benoa Beach in Bali is famous as a center of recreational sea water. It is just 25 minutes drive from Bali's International Airport or just a step from Nusa Dua Bali. If you take a vacation to Bali, don't forget to visit this place. There are many exciting water sports such as parasailing, jet ski, water ski, banana boat, etc. This time i want to explain about parasailing.

Have you ever imagine can flying like birds while enjoying the scenery from a height?

Parasailing is a fantastic activity by hinging the body under airborne which is pulled by the speed boat to overview the amazing panorama of the coastal area. It will bring you to fly 95 meters above sea level and you can enjoy the beautiful panorama of Tanjung Benoa and surrounding area. The friendly Parasailing Guide will ensure you with the high safety equipment and short briefing before flaying off. Your experience will begin from take off on the white sandy beach to surround coastal area until landing back on the sand.

The tourists who want to enjoy this game does not necessarily have experience as a parachutist. People will be able to play this parasailing for ages 7 years - 65 years. Children who follow this game will be guided by the parasailing which already have experience that is ready to participate in flying.

It's fantastic, isn't it? You can like birds flying around Tanjung Benoa Beach Bali while enjoying the scenery around the hotel, the sea port of Benoa and Nusa Penida island. Length of game parasailing: 1 lap time in the Tanjung Benoa Beach Bali.

Tanah Lot, one of the most popular places of interest in Bali, is located on the coast of West Bali, at the village of Beraban in the Tabanan Regency. It is also called Tanah Let which means ancient land and also Tanah Lod, which means the land to the south.

The temple Pura Tanah Lot, simple in its construction, is dramatic in its ocean-front location and is one of the main temples in the worship of Balinese gods.

Tanah Lot has a long history in the world of tourism. The temple itself is built on a small promontory which is only accessible at low tide. During high water the rock takes on the appearance of a large boat at sea, such is its shape. Poisonous snakes live in the nearby caves to 'guard' the temple and contribute to the temple's dangerous reputation.Sunset is the best time to visit Tanah lot, when the golden red skies frame the temple and waves crash into the rocks. It is advisable to avoid the tourist crush here as it can be severe.

Tanah Lot is claimed to be the work of the 15th century priest Nirartha. During his travels along the south coast he saw the rock-island's beautiful setting and rested there. Some fishermen saw him, and bought him gifts. Nirartha then spent the night on the little island. Later he spoke to the fishermen and told them to build a shrine on the rock for he felt it to be a holy place to worship the Balinese sea gods.

The Tanah Lot temple was built and has been a part of Balinese mythology for centuries. The temple is one of Seven Sea Temple around the Balinese coast. Each of the sea temples were established within eyesight of the next to form a chain along the south-western coast.

At the base of the rocky island, poisonous sea snakes are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits and intruders. As well as one giant snake which also protects the temple, which was created from Nirartha’s scarf when he established the island.

Pura Agung Pulaki, a large, dramatic temple only 25 meters from the sea, is located 30 km of Seririt (48 km west of Singaraja) near the grape-growing village of Banyupoh. This important temple commemorates the arrival of the Javanese saint-priest Nirartha to Bali in the early 16th century.

Cliffs tower behind the temple surrounded by jungle and overrun by hordes of simians. Considered sacred, the macaques are well fed by pilgrims. The monkeys on the hills range have existed before the arrival of Danghyang Nirartha. It is said that when he entered the forest of Pulaki he was escorted by those monkey troops. As his respect to those monkeys Danghyang Nirartha then established the Pulaki Temple and the entire monkeys there came to be its guardian.

The Pulaki temple is flanked by several temples which surround the Pulaki Temple as the center of the complex that is called “Pesanakan”, the surrounding temples are: Pemuteran Temple located 1 km to the west popular for its hot spring, Kerta Kawat Temple located 2 km to the southeast, and Pabean Temple 400 meters to the northeast.

Legend has it great village exist here, invisible for its temple. It said when Nirartha lived in Gelgel, he was forced to hide his daughter lest she abducted by the king. He finally brought her to this remote place, rendering it invisible to keep her safe. To this day, the people who occupy the visible village is known as gamang and are said to wonder the countryside.

Black stone gate will greet the pilgrims and visitors to this temple; this gate was built in 1983 and heralded with a great ceremony that need holy water from various places range from east Java in the west to Lombok in the east. As any other temple in Bali, Pura Pulaki is divided into three courtyards, Jaba, outer courtyard, jaba tengah, middle courtyard and jeroan, main courtyard. Not just the gate, the shrines and the ornaments of this sacred temple are also dominated by black color.

With the sounds of rushing waves nearby and the rustling wind from the hill behind the temple created a serene atmosphere that interrupt only by the squeak of the monkeys.

As one of the world’s prime tourist destinations, the wonderful island of Bali is now host to the Bali Safari and Marine Park, presented by Taman Safari Indonesia. Bali Safari and Marine Park gives visitors a very different experience – a unique combination of natural wildlife with a strong Balinese cultural influence. The new park is at Gianyar, a centre of art and culture in Bali, just 30 kms from Bali's International Airport or

Home to hundreds amazing animals representing more than 50 species, including some of rare and endangered species. Combining Balinese cultural ambience with African Savannah, Bali Safari and Marine Park features the following exhibits featuring Sumatran elephant, Sumatran tiger, white tiger, leopard, komodo dragon and cheetah are just some of the fascinating creatures that can be seen at the Bali Safari and Marine Park.

Fulfilling its mission of conservation, education and recreation through one of our attractive Elephant Show devoted to animals involved in conservation and education projects and so much more excitement by riding the elephant with our Elephant Back Safari around the African Savannah and get to see your favorite animal up close! in Animal Encounter make the Bali Safari and Marine Park's leading family attraction and adventure in Bali.

Capturing the ambience and authenticity of the African wilderness, Mara River Safari Lodge is a themed resort that offers a truly unique experience. Accommodation is composed of a series of comfortably appointed thatched dwellings orientated towards a landscape inhabited by wildlife.

With the shadow of Bali’s sacred Mount Agung looming in the distance, embrace the rare tranquillity of this retreat as rhinos, zebras and onyx graze contentedly at close range. Savour the raw beauty surrounding the lodge, while lions majestically roar declaring their status as king of the beasts.

Come and have a one-of-a-kind experience with a Balinese cultural influence, supported by the warm hospitality of the island’s people.

So many people, young and old, men and women, natives and foreigners came in flocks to see a unique ritual in Banjar Kaja, Sesetan village, South Denpasar, a day after Nyepi. The old men from Banjar Kaja sprinkle the road. A moment later, while the members of sekaa teruna teruni Satya Dharma Kerti (youth organization; in Banjar Kaja, its youth organization is named Satya Dharma Kerti) was praying, a Barong dance was held. After the praying and dancing session was over, the core of this ritual came.

The teenagers came out to the road. The boys were in left and the girls were in right. They were wetted by the adult ones. Balinese gambelan (traditional instrument) were played. The boys chose one of their members, so did the girls. Those chosen people were pushed by the others. “Omed-omedan” was started,They pushed his and her waist. Gambelan player played another tune, more and more beat. They pushed their own member until the chosen ones met in the middle of the road, and both of the chosen embraced and kissed each other. However, the girls were so shy to do this ritual in public that the girls sometimes avoid the embraces and kisses. It was a totally different story for the boys. They were always excited to embrace and kiss the girls. Moreover, there was a boy took a minute longer to do that. For that reason the old men sprinkled them with so much water. Then the chosen were pulled back to their position by the others. Those push and pull were done for several times with different chosen people.Attractive chosen people attracted more audiences to scream and push the others audiences because they want to see from closer distance The audiences which passed the border were also sprinkled. Whoop….so wet!

Another information if you want to come to see this tradition is do not forget to protect your camera and others electronic things. Who knows yours will be sprinkled too.Omed-omedan is held in a day after Nyepi (silence day) by people of Banjar Kaja, Sesetan village, South Denpasar. The teenagers who belong to this Banjar play the main role on this tradition. They -the boys and the girls- embrace each other by turns with wet body. They push a chosen boy and a chosen girl’s waist until they embrace and kiss ech other then he and she are pulled back to their initial position (see the complete information of omed-omedan on the previous posting).Omed-omedan come from ‘omed’ meant pull. Many people outside Banjar Kaja often call omed-omedan with med-medan. “Actually, this tradition was held on Nyepi day,” said I Wayan Sunarya, Kelian Adat (Head of Banjar) Banjar Kaja. In the bygone days, Raja Puri Oka, authority of Sesetan village, was sick. He was still sick until Nyepi but the teenagers of Banjar Kaja were bored staying in home during the silence day. So, they went out gathered together. They played and chatted noisily that Raja Puri Oka was disturbed. Raja Puri Oka felt angry and commanded them to get in their house. But a miracle happened. Raja Puri Oka got well and became really healthy. Since that day, Raja Puri Oka told Banjar Kaja’s teenagers to do ‘omed-omedan’ in Nyepi Day.“In colonial period, we were asked not to do omed-omedan on Nyepi day,” added Sunarya. Without any wonder, Nyepi is not proper time to make noise. Then Omed-omedan is held on a day after Nyepi. There was an occasion in colonial time, the people of Banjar Kaja-ever did not hold this tradition. “Then two pigs came and fight in front of Banjar Kaja. It turns out, it was a sign from god that omed-omedan had to hold every year,” explained Sunarya. Until this time omed-omedan is still held annually.

On that day, many parents hope their teenagers will get a mate trough this omed-omedan. Suprisingly, in this Banjar, there are some couples which started their relationships from omed-omedan. “So I prove it,” said Sunarya. He did not feel anything to Ni Putu Yarniathi before omed-omedan. They were a friend. “But I don’t know after omed-omedan ‘that’ feeling came,” he recalled. They got marriage and this year their marriage reach 30 years. “I am very happy, now I have three children and many grandsons,” he said. Whoo… so romantic isn’t it?. Unfortunately, for those who are not the member of Banjar Kaja are not allowed joining this tradition, except as audiences.his tradition is not a sacred tradition like Pangrebongan in Kesiman village. However this tradition is so entertaining. Wanna see? Get ready on next year.

The humanity of a society is not just measured by how people treat their friends but how they care for their enemies. But what happens when the lines distinguishing friends from enemies are blurred by cultural dictates? Are bonds of kinship strong enough when tested? These questions are posited in a ritual called perang pandan of the Bali Aga people in Tenganan where males of age of reason, from children as young as seven to men as old as seventy, engage in a bloody duel, every year.

Literally meaning “pandan war”, perang pandan is a man-to-man, or child-to-child battle using a thorny pandan (wild screwpine) leaves bunched into a club, with only a peresai or woven bamboo (?) shield as protection. There are no declaration of winners or losers and one can participate in as many duels as permitted by a council of adults who themselves participate in the rites.

Human as men are, the fights can get heated, resulting to lots of blood and bad temper but somehow after all the lashing and whipping, participants are put into place and acrimony is left on stage. Smiles and embraces are exchanged. Manhood is tested. Civilization survives.

More notes and photographs in the following days.Be early, especially on the 3rd and last day of the perang pandan. The fight started before 2PM, so by 1PM, I already claimed a stake in front of the the stage and soon enough all places would be taken. This, under the heat of noon sun. It would be worth the aggravation as even the sidelights leading to the battle ceremony are worth documenting.a nervous young boy, psyching himself up for the perang pandan duel in Tengenan, Manggis, Karengasem, Bali, Indonesia (uncropped)

perang pandanGradually, as the more than one-hour ritual progressed, the participants would sit around the arena and would block your view. Move backwards and seek higher ground and use a telephoto lens. Otherwise, bring a stool with you, or as other male photographers would do, wear traditional clothes and go bare-chested like the participants so as to gain access to the sacred pavilion overlooking the makeshift stage.a seriously touch and bloody battle at the perang pandan in Tengenan, Manggis, Karengasem, Bali, Indonesia (uncropped)

Barong Bangkung is performed peripatetically throughout the village namely from one house to another that is called ngelawang. They perform this ngelawang from Galungan day to Umanis Kuningan, for 12 days. Barong Bangkung (sow) is also called Barong Bangkal (wild boar) or Barong Celeng (pig) since it has the form of a huge black pig. It is performed by two male dancers and accompanied by batel or tetamburan gamelan orchestra.

This dance usually performed by children which consist of group. Barong bangkung always visit people’s houses and will dance lively in front of each house gate. The dweller will never feel disturbed by the Barong. In fact, they are happy for this fresh and inexpensive entertainment. With the money amount of Rp.1.000, Rp.2000 or Rp.3000, people will dissolve in laughter for few hilarious scenes that is offered by the barong’s dancer.

in usual, Barong bangkung usually starts Ngelawang on Galungan until Kuningan, three days after Galungan and three days after Kuningan. During the staging, Barong Bangkung group will be accompanied by few telek mask dancers (mostly children accompanied by batel musical instruments) with their funny faces. Sekaa (group) Barong Bangkung always walks randomly from one village to another. They dance based on the money; the more they get paid, the longer they will dance.

Bull race in bali we call Mekepung. Makepung is a product of agrarian culture in Jembrana (Delod berawah area). The word itself means runing romp. Makepung Attraction is compete scoot a pair of buffalo train / car that is called by the peoples cikar Jembrana.

Each race compete in a buffalo through 2 km distance crossing back and forth so that the total distance up to 4 km. When race and buffalo train ornament decorated with Balinese and Ornament including the jockey / the sais soldiers make up the style of traditional Bali.

Makepung developed since 1930-an, which inspired the activities of the farmers carry harvest of the rice paddy. Because the number of car / train porter and excitement as they often flood the race to the destination. And now this attraction attraction developed into a culture that regularly held every year. Attraction can be witnessed makepung start in June until November each year. Great event that always siphon attention tourists are struggling Regent Cup (August), and Bali Governor Cup (October / November).

A s one of the provinces of Indonesia Bali is an agrarian island which has a unique organization called Subak that regulates water for the rice fields. The farmers use ploughs and the soil management is divided into several stages. To make the soil soft they use the tenggala plough, to pull weeds out from the soil they use the anchor plough, to turn to soil into mud they use lampit slau plough, and finally, to soften the soil, they use plasah plough. They start planting rice when the surface of the soil is really soft. They practice a work system called ngajakan ("ngajakan" is a Balinese word meaning a mutual help without payment).

The Mekepung attraction is held only in the Jembrana district, located in the south-west area of Bali. From Denpasar (the capital city of Bali island), it only takes one hour by car to the west. "Mekepung" is a Balinese word (the only Balinese terminology) that designates buffalo racing. People inspired by the stage of soil management, that is, to soften the soil by using a lampit slau plough. In the process of softening the soil, farmers work together with other farmers and their wives to prepare food for them. Lampit slau plough is carried by two water buffalos and they are decorated with a large gerondongan bell which rings in producing a rock music when they move. It sounds grenjeng-grenjeng. Each of these ploughs is ridden by a jockey. The jockey sits on the plough.

During the activity, one feels inspired to have a race. This is the beginning of buffalo race or mekepung, i.e., a race in power to carry the ploughs.

Buffalo race, Buffalo Racing or Mekepung in the Jembrana district of Bali, Indonesia Buffalo race, Buffalo Racing or Mekepung in the Jembrana district of Bali, Indonesia

The first Buffalo Race or Mekepung is said to be held in the muddy rice field of Subak Pecelengan, the village of Mendoyo Dangin Tukad the subdistrict of Mendoyo, the Dictrict of Jembrana. On the run, the attraction is also done by farmers from other areas such as those who live in Subak Temuku Aya, Subak Tegak Gede, and Subak Mertasari, and then develops into a Mekepung in the muddy rice field, held in turns when they start watering the rice field.

The Buffalo Race or Mekepung Attraction developed around the year of 1930, then the jockey dressed like palace soldiers. They were barefoot, wore head dress, a scarf, a vest, and trousers with a sword wrapped in checkered patterned cloth in the waist. Because the jockey got dirty after the mekepung in the muddy rice field, then they moved the attraction to the soil road near the rice field. This developed in the year around 1960, and they formed two adverse mekepung groups. The one is called group "Ijo Gading Timur" with a red flag and the other group is named "Ijo Gading Barat" which chose green flag. Ijo Gading is the name of the river dividing the town of Negara, the capital of the Jembrana district. "Timur" means east and "Barat" means west. So the group "Ijo Gading Timur" means the group located in the east side of the Ijo Gading river, whereas the group "Ijo Gading Barat" means the group residing in the west side of the same river. Each group is fiercely defending the honour and the reputation of its own region.

They do not use lampit plough anymore, but a mini carriage decorated with beautiful carving. The jockey dresses in a traditional uniform, a batik head dress, long sleeve shirt, a vest, and a pair of trousers.

The Buffalo Racing organizerThe Mekepung organizer is called the Coordinator of the Jembrana District Mekepung. The present coordinator is Mr. I Wayan Gelgel from the village of Delodbrawah, the head of the East Ijo Gading Group is Mr. I Ketut Astawan from the village of Dauhwaru, and the head of West Ijo Gading Group is Mr. I Wayan Deken.

Each group has 100 pairs of water buffalos, each of which has a unique name such as Batu Api, Emak Lampir, Hanoman, Gerandong, Nini Pelet, Raden Bentar, Sembara, Kalagondang, etc. These names are taken from legends made popular by tv films.

The Buffalo Racing CalendarThe Buffalo Race or Mekepung Attraction can be seen, both training and actual races, in the Jembrana district of Bali on Sundays each year from July to October,. The Bupati's Cup is held in August while the Governor's Cup is scheduled in October. Bupati is the title of the Head of the Jembrana district government whereas Gubernur/Governor is the title of the Head of the Bali province government.

Nyepi Day is Balinese Hindu’s new year called Saka. At that time, like previous years, the majority of Balinese people are Hindu, will conduct four Brata penyepian (something are dissalowed to do): do not light a fire (amati Gni), does not work (amati karya), does not travel (amati lelungan), and does not hold entertainment (amati lelanguan).

To respect the holy days, the Indonesian Broadcasting Commission Area of Bali officially request the radio and TV not start broadcasting on that day. So, on the day of Nyepi Bali will be the silent crowd of all kinds, so that it is conducive to the Hindu (or anyone) who want to self-contemplation and introspection.

Nyepi implementation consists of a series of ceremonies that began with the Melasti ceremony conducted between three or four days before Nyepi. At the time of the Hindu Melasti ceremony pratima (personificasion power of God) and all equipment with a sincere heart, orderly to the ocean or other springs that are considered sacred to clean the pratima. The ceremony was conducted with pray together facing the sea. After the ceremony performed after the Melasti, pratima and all the equipment carried to the Central Court in Pura village to be buried.

A day before Nyepi, the Hindu ritual implement Mecaru the ceremony for harmonizing the human relationship with nature around, including the astral organism-organism called bhuta usual. The ceremony was held in the open field or cross road and environment in each home. The ceremony for the province, district da district in the tenga day is done. While the ceremonies in their respective home made the evening (sandyakala).

After mecaru, the event followed by a torch ngrupuk namely rice and sprinkle tawur encircle the house. While for the village level and train, the village or banjar three times with a torch and musical instrument. Since 1980, the ogoh-ogoh festival the colossus was done. Ogoh-ogoh funded with contributions of money and then burned it. Burning ogoh-ogoh symbolizing to netralize the elements in the evil power of the universe.

Ogoh-ogoh actually do not have a direct relationship with the Nyepi ceremony. Sculptures made with bamboo, paper, fabric and objects that it is a simple creativity and spontaneity as the pure community sense of spark blow ngrupuk to enliven the ceremony. Because there is no connection with the Hari Raya Nyepi, the ogoh-ogoh is clear that there is not absolute in the ceremony. However, objects that may be made permanent as a complement to cheer the ceremony and adjusted so that the shape, for example, that the form of giant Bhuta Kala.

The next day, Nyepi is coming. On this day do the people do not implement the four things that have been above that. With no fires (including machinery and electrical), not travel, does not work, and does not enjoy the entertainment, on the day of the Hindu people do that at the same time with contemplation upawasa (fasting) and mona Brata (not talking) for 24 hours.

Last series of the Saka New Year is the day Ngembak Geni, ie, a day after Nyepi. On the day this is the Saka New Year begins. On that day the Hindu visiting the families and neighbors, to forgive each other sorry.

Saraswati Day is the special day of thanks for the gift of knowledge. The festive day is a time for making offerings to books and especially the sacred lontar palm leaf books. All books are subjects on this day. One is not supposed to read books, however schools have special ceremonies. Notedly, Pura Jagatnatha in Denpasar is jam packed with students praying for success in their studies in the early morning ceremony.Here is a brief description of the Goddess Saraswati:

Saraswati is the Goddess of leaming, knowledge, and wisdom. The Sanskrit word sara means “essence” and swa means “self.” Thus Saraswati means “the essence of the self.” Saraswati is represented in Hindu mythology as the divine consort of Lord Brahma, the Creator of the universe. Since knowledge is necessary for creation, Saraswati symbolizes the creative power of Brahma. Goddess Saraswati is worshipped by all persons interested in knowledge, especially students, teachers, scholars, and scientists.

In Her popular images and pictures, Goddess Saraswati is generally depicted with four arms (some pictures may show only two arms), wearing a white sari and seated on a white lotus. She holds a book and a rosary in her rear two hands, while the front two hands are engaged in the playing of a lute (veena). Her right leg is shown slightly pushing against her left leg. She uses a swan as her vehicle. There is a peacock by her side gazing at her. This symbolism illustrates the following spiritual ideas:

The lotus is a symbol of the Supreme Reality, and a white lotus also denotes supreme knowledge. By sitting on a lotus, Saraswati signifies that She is Herself rooted in the Supreme Reality, and symbolizes supreme knowledge. The white colour symbolizes purity and knowledge. The white sari that the Goddess is wearing denotes that She is the embodiment of pure knowledge.

The four arms denote her omnipresence and omnipotence. The two front arms indicate her activity in the physical world and the two back arms signify her presence in the spiritual world. The four hands represent the four elements of the inner personality. The mind (manas) is represented by the front right hand, the intellect (buddhi) by the front left hand, the conditioned consciousness (chitta) by the rear left hand, and the ego (ahankara) by the rear right hand.

The left side of the body symbolizes the qualities of the heart and the right side symbolizes activities of the mind and intellect. A book in the rear left hand signifies that knowledge acquired must be used with love and kindness to promote prosperity of mankind.

The rosary signifies concentration, meditation, and contemplation, leading to samadhi, or union with God. A rosary in the rear right hand representing ego conveys that true knowledge acquired with love and devotion melts the ego and results in liberation (moksha) of the seeker from the bondage to the physical world.

The Goddess is shown playing a musical instrument that is held in her front hands, which denote mind and intellect. This symbol conveys that the seeker must tune his mind and intellect in order to live in perfect harmony with the world. Such harmonious living enables the individual to utilize acquired knowledge for the welfare of all mankind.

Two swans are depicted on the left side of the Goddess. A swan is said to have a sensitive beak that enables it to distinguish pure milk from a mixture of milk and water. A swan, therefore, symbolizes the power of discrimination, or the ability to discriminate between right and wrong or good and bad. Saraswati uses the swan as her carrier. This indicates that one must acquire and apply knowledge with discrimination for the good of mankind. Knowledge that is dominated by ego can destroy the world.

A peacock is sitting next to Saraswati and is anxiously waiting to serve as her vehicle. A peacock depicts unpredictable behaviour as its moods can be influenced by the changes in the weather. Saraswati is using a swan as a vehicle and not the peacock. This signifies that one should overcome fear, indecision, and fickleness in order to acquire true knowledge.

Galungan is a Balinese holiday that occurs every 210 days and lasts for 10 days. Kuningan is the last day of the holiday. Galungan means “When the Dharma is winning.” During this holiday the Balinese gods visit the Earth and leave on Kuningan.

Occurring once in every 210 days in the pawukon (Balinese cycle of days), Galungan marks the beginning of the most important recurring religious ceremony that is celebrated by all Balinese in Bali or Indonesia. During the Galungan period the deified ancestors of the family descend to their former homes. They must be suitably entertained and welcomed, and prayers and offerings must be made for them. Those families who have ancestors that have not yet been cremated, but are still buried in the village cemetery, must make offerings at the graves.Although Galungan falls on a Wednesday, most Balinese will begin their Galungan holiday the day before, where the family is seen to be busily preparing offerings and cooking for the next day. While the women of the household have been busy for days before creating beautifully woven “banten” (offerings made from young coconut fronds), the men of our village usually wake up well before dawn to join with their neighbours to slaughter a pig unlucky enough to be chosen to help celebrate this occasion. Then the finely diced pork is mashed to a pulp with a grinding stone, and moulded onto sate sticks that have been already prepared by whittling small sticks of bamboo. Chickens may also be chosen from the collection of free-range chickens that roam around the house compound. Delicate combinations of various vegetables, herbs and spices are also prepared by the men to make up a selection of lawar dishes. While much of this cooking is for use in the offerings to be made at the family temple, by mid-morning, once all the cooking is done, it is time for the first of a series of satisfying feasts from what has been prepared. While the women continue to be kept busy with the preparations of the many offerings to be made at the family temple on the day of Galungan, the men also have another job to do this day, once the cooking is finished. A long bamboo pole, or penjor, is made to decorate the entrance to the family compound. By late Tuesday afternoon all over Bali the visitor can see these decorative poles creating a very festive atmosphere in the street.

On Wednesday, the day of Galungan, one will find that most Balinese will try to return to their own ancestral home at some stage during the day, even if they work in another part of the island. This is a very special day for families, where offerings are made to God and to the family ancestors who have come back to rest at this time in their family temple. As well as the family temple, visits are made to the village temple with offerings as well, and to the homes of other families who may have helped the family in some way over the past six months.

The day after Galungan is a time for a holiday, visiting friends, maybe taking the opportunity to head for the mountains for a picnic. Everyone is still seen to be in their Sunday best as they take to the streets to enjoy the festive spirit that Galungan brings to Bali.

The date for Galungan and other special Balinese days is shown on the Balinese Calendar.

Come to Bali to see the Holiday celebration yourself.

Galungan is the most important feast for Balinese Hindus, a celebration to honor the creator of the universe (Ida Sang Hyang Widi) and the spirits of the honored ancestors.

The festival symbolizes the victory of good (Dharma) over evil (Adharma), and encourages the Balinese to show their gratitude to the creator and sainted ancestors.

Offerings to the AncestorsGalungan occurs once in the 210-day cycle of the Balinese calendar, and marks the time of the year when the spirits of the ancestors are believed to visit the earth. Balinese Hindus perform rituals that are meant to welcome and entertain these returning spirits.

The house compounds that make up the nucleus of Balinese society come alive with devotions offered by the families living within. Families offer bountiful sacrifices of food and flowers to the ancestral spirits, expressing gratitude and hopes for protection. These sacrifices are also offered at local temples, which are packed with devotees bringing their offerings.

The whole island sprouts tall bamboo poles called "penjor" - these are usually decorated with fruit, coconut leaves, and flowers, and set up on the right of every residence entrance. At each gate, you'll also find small bamboo altars set up especially for the holiday, each one bearing woven palm-leaf offerings for the spirits.

Intensive PreparationsThe preparations for Galungan begin several days before the actual feast day.

Three days before Galungan - "Penyekeban" - families begin their preparations for Galungan. "Penyekeban" literally means "the day to cover up ", as this is the day when green bananas are covered up in huge clay pots to speed their ripening.

Two days before Galungan - "Penyajahan" - marks a time of introspection for Balinese, and more prosaically, a time to make the Balinese cakes known as jaja. These colored cakes made of fried rice dough are used in offerings and are also eaten specially on Galungan. This time of the year finds a glut of jaja in every village market.

A day before Galungan - "Penampahan", or slaughter day - Balinese slaughter the sacrificial animals that will go into the temple or altar offerings. Galungan is marked by the sudden surplus of traditional Balinese food, like lawar (a spicy pork and coconut sauce dish) and satay.

On Galungan day itself, Balinese devotees pray at the temples and make their offerings to the spirits. Women are seen carrying the offerings on their heads, while men bring palm fronds.

The day after Galungan, Balinese visit their kinfolk and closest friends.

The tenth day after Galungan - "Kuningan" - marks the end of Galungan, and is believed to be the day when the spirits ascend back to heaven. On this day, Balinese make special offerings of yellow rice.

Ngelawang - Dance of the BarongDuring Galungan, a ceremony known as Ngelawang is performed in the villages. Ngelawang is an exorcism ceremony performed by a "barong" - a divine protector in the form of a mythical beast.

The barong is invited into houses as he makes his way through the village. His presence is meant to restore the balance of good and evil in a house. The residents of the house will pray before the dancing barong, who will afterwards give a piece of his fur as a keepsake.

After the barong pays a visit, it is important to make an offering of a canang sari containing money.

A Treat for the SensesWhile the actual festivities are open to Balinese only, tourists who visit Bali during this holiday get an eyeful of the local color.

It isn't every day you see richly-dressed women crossing the street to make food offerings to the local temple - and there's something festive about the penjor swaying in the wind everywhere you look!

During Galungan, some local restaurants ride the rising demand for Balinese food by offering specials on all sorts of native dishes. This is a great time to try Balinese food for the first time!

On the downside, many places will be closed for Galungan, as their devout Balinese employees will likely be going to their respective villages to celebrate.

As the Balinese calendar follows a 210-day cycle, Galungan happens twice a year roughly every six months. The holiday is calculated to occur on the following dates:

March 18-28, 2009October 14-24, 2009May 12-22, 2010December 8-10, 2010July 6-16, 2011February 1-11, 2012You might want to reserve a hotel in Bali early for these days, as holiday-goers from all over are making Galungan plans of their own!

Bamboo grown in west Bali reaches monstrous proportions the likes of which are not known elsewhere on the island. This quirk of nature has been exploited by local musicians with the creation of thegamelan jegog, so named for the remarkablejegoganthat is the sonic core of the ensemble. Individual tubes on these may stretch to an incredible 3 meters in length, with circumferences of 60-65 centimeters.3 They are so unwieldy that a pair of musicians must sit on top of the frame of the instrument in order to play it. It requires quite a pounding with thick rubber beaters to coax music out of them, but what finally emerges is a sound so powerful that it seems to enter the body through the stomach rather than the ears.www.balivision.comen.wikipedia.org